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8 Collections Mistakes That Could Cost You Big

Associa has consistently provided boards with guidance on correcting past collection errors. Our latest ebook, "8 Collections Mistakes That Could Cost You Big", is a continuation of that education.

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With almost five decades of experience, Associa has consistently provided boards with expert guidance on correcting past HOA collections errors. Our latest ebook, "8 Collections Mistakes That Could Cost You Big", is a continuation of that education. 

Correcting Your HOA Collections Process

Collecting delinquent assessments is a critical component of protecting a community’s financial health. Assessments help fund daily operations, necessary reserve accounts, essential services, and much more. 

Collecting late payments is important but doing it the right way is just as crucial. A mistake can not only tarnish the relationship with homeowners but also negatively impact the association’s budget and derail future improvement projects.  Read this ebook to discover client accounting professional Danielle Hawkins' top eight collections management mistakes she has seen boards make and her tips for avoiding heading down the same path. 

Related:  HOA Collections Policy Quick Tips

Download this free ebook to get tips from Roy Johnson, Sr. Relationship Manager for Associa Abstract Services and HOA Collection Services, on improving crafting and enforcement for an effective collections process. 

Inside the Guide

The "8 Collections Mistakes That Could Cost You Big" ebook is FREE to download. Here's a preview of what you can expect:

  • Governing document guidance. Find out how they can shape an association's collections policy. 
  • Enforcement advice. Learn how to enforce collections policies consistently, avoiding favoritism and abuse of power. 
  • Communication tips. Examples of how to explain the collections process to residents, including suggestions for where dialogues can take place. 
  • Considerations for payment options. Options for payment methods to make collecting dues simple. 
  • Best practices for escalation. Emphasizing transparency so that the importance of collections is always understood. 
  • And much more! 

Related: 6 Unique Ways to Collect Delinquent HOA Dues

Additional HOA Financial  Content

Step-by-Step Guide to Developing an HOA Collections Policy

Download this step-by-step guide to developing a collections policy to start creating the best financial future for your association. 

A Complete Guide to HOA Taxes

Download this ebook to get a better understanding of HOA tax laws, HOA financial audit requirements, IRS form 1120-H instructions, and more.

Annual Budget Best Practices for HOA Boards

Get best practices for crafting a healthy budget and securing a stable future for your community from community manager Rose Jurczewski, CMCA®, AMS®.

10 Vendor Contracts You Need to Review Right Now

Learn the 10 vendor contracts that have the biggest impact on HOA budgets and discover best practices for reviewing, renewing, and renegotiating them.

Frequently Asked Collections Questions

What is a collections policy?

A collections policy is a procedure that helps an HOA board of directors establish how and when to respond to residents who are delinquent on assessment payments and other fees. When working correctly, a properly enforced collections policy should handle all scenarios impartially, minimizing inefficiency and maximizing fairness to get the job done and help the association receive the fees it’s owed.

Can an HOA send you to collections?

Yes, an HOA can send delinquent assessments to a collection agency if homeowners fail to pay their dues. This can negatively impact the homeowner's credit score and lead to additional fees and legal complications.

What are delinquent HOA fees?

Delinquent HOA fees are those that have not been paid to the association on time. When dues have gone unpaid for an extended period and HOA collections efforts have failed, HOA fees become delinquent. 

About the Author

Danielle works in client accounting at Associa’s national headquarters. Along with the rest of the accounting team, she helps to ensure that branches across the country are properly managing their collections, avoiding delinquency, and optimizing their funds.